Nicole Greal LCSW

I am not a “blank slate” therapist! My goal is for clients to feel comfortable in sessions and to get something out of it that works for them; being authentic myself is an important part of that. While I recognize the value of professionalism and structure, I balance that alongside a warm and engaged approach. I will react (within reason) to the experiences of clients; we will laugh together as well as process some of the tougher moments of life. I maintain a safe, non-judgmental space for clients and readily explain my approaches or reasons for questioning. While I don’t “tell people what to do”, I am comfortable being direct as desired and will identify patterns that don’t serve you. Not every session is highly structured or about “doing the heavy lifting”, however I do keep an awareness of the goals we are working towards and check-in along the way about how therapy progress feels in action.

I utilize a humanistic, anti-oppressive approach to therapy and aim to bring clients into awareness of their own strengths and self-expertise. I use a wide variety of approaches and frameworks, favorites include: TF-CBT, ACT, DBT, motivational interviewing, phase-oriented trauma treatment, and somatic regulation skills.

I recognize that building trust with a therapist takes time and requires that I show up in an authentic way myself. Taking the time for us to get to know each other and develop shared expectations for therapy allows me to tailor a creative and unique approach to my work with each client. I aim to make sure clients leave with tools to use or with something to reflect on between sessions. I typically utilize a phase-oriented trauma treatment approach, which means we start off with more psychoeducation (teaching about theories, the nervous system, cognitive distortions) and then determine what coping skills work best according to individual needs. I find that this supports clients in taking care of themselves during and outside of sessions and promotes a trauma-conscious way of healing.

• Illinois, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 149025082

I have experience working in various community mental health settings, including a variety of non-profit organizations and a Cook County courthouse location. Foundational experiences in a variety of roles, including case management, housing, and therapy, have contributed to my holistic approach to supporting clients.